Cycling Without Age Gippsland (CWAG) travelled to Buchan this week, where picturesque autumnal scenery provided a special experience for first-time passengers.
The not-for-profit charity, chaired by local MP Darren Chester, is a new community service that helps to connect those no longer able to ride for themselves with their community by giving them free rides on trishaw e-bikes driven by volunteer pilots.
Mr Chester and CWAG committee member Carolynne Rankcolm introduced four Buchan locals, Judy Gray, Heather Gissing, Kim Van Dyk and Melva Woodgate, to the Cycling Without Age experience.
“Our first Cycling Without Age Gippsland ride in Buchan was lots of fun as we took some locals through the Caves Reserve on a chilly autumnal day,” Darren said.
“We actually needed the weather canopies for the first time, and although the pilots got a little wet in the misty rain, the passengers were very snug and warm under the shelter.
“The Parks Victoria crew members have the reserve looking fantastic after the major flood event 18 months ago, and the new road surfaces, bridges and pathway are perfect for our trishaws.
“I think we can add the Buchan Caves Reserve as another perfect destination for future Cycling Without Age Gippsland events because it’s flat, there’s plenty of flora and fauna to enjoy, and our passengers gave us some positive feedback.”
CWAG will be offering more free rides in Sale, Bairnsdale and Lakes Entrance in the coming weeks, with upcoming dates to be announced soon.
Darren said anyone interested in booking a ride with CWAG should email the volunteer team at cwagippsland@gmail.com.
“Bookings are essential,” Darren said.
“You can also find Cycling Without Age Gippsland on Facebook and Instagram for information and the latest news.”
If you would like to support Cycling Without Age Gippsland and are in a position to do so, public donations are welcomed via https://chuffed.org/project/112484-cwa-gippsland
